Investigating the role of proteins in a drug-resistant fungus and their potential as vaccine targets

Role of multi-drug resistant Candida auris Hyr1 / Iff-like proteins in virulence and their potential as vaccine targets

NIH-funded research Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center · NIH-10985976

This study is looking at certain proteins in the tough fungus Candida auris to see how they help it cause serious infections in people with weakened immune systems, and it hopes to use this information to create a vaccine that could help prevent these infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Torrance, United States)
Project IDNIH-10985976 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how specific proteins in the multi-drug resistant fungus Candida auris contribute to its ability to cause severe infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients. The project aims to explore these proteins as potential targets for vaccine development, which could help prevent infections. The research will involve laboratory experiments and animal models to assess the effectiveness of these proteins in eliciting an immune response. By leveraging advanced techniques, including mRNA technology, the study seeks to fill critical gaps in current knowledge about fungal pathogens.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are immunocompromised individuals who are at high risk for Candida auris infections.

Not a fit: Patients with non-fungal infections or those who are not immunocompromised may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective vaccines against Candida auris infections, significantly improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing vaccines targeting other fungal pathogens, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Torrance, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.